The NZDF’s links with government Defence policy not only provide Defence Force contributions to the resolution of conflict and maintenance of stability, but also provide a wide range of assistance to the community. For example, NZDF contributions to the New Zealand community include the following:
- The provision of additional skills to society via Reserve and Territorial Force personnel.
- The NZDF encourages innovation, and promotes high standards in education.
- The education and skills given to members of the Armed Forces add value to the wider New Zealand community when those members take their release; especially those who take release at the 10 to 20 year mark.
- The NZDF promotes and supports initiatives that enhance the capacity of young New Zealanders through the Limited Service Volunteer (LSV) Scheme, the NZ Cadet Forces, and relationships with schools at the local level throughout New Zealand. Under the Government’s 2009/10 initiatives - Opportunities for Young People and Fresh Start for Young People, the NZDF has accepted a greater commitment for the next two years by expanding the LSV Scheme and by supporting and assisting more Service Academies and Military-style Activity Camps.
- The NZDF promotes a healthy Defence Industry in New Zealand.
- The NZDF will buy New Zealand made where considered prudent and within current government requirements / limitations.
- The NZDF supports other agencies of government to assist in maintaining the security and wellbeing of New Zealanders. For example, the NZDF has formal and informal arrangements in support of the NZ Police, the NZ Customs Service, the Ministry of Fisheries, the Ministry of Emergency Management, Civil Defence, and so on, all aimed at keeping New Zealanders safe/secure and promoting safer communities. More details on these relationships, including shared outcomes, are included within Section 4 of this Statement of Intent.
- The NZDF promotes fitness and better health.
While these links are important to the NZDF and to the community, they arise as by-products of being a disciplined Defence Force per se.
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